The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of Africa. It is one of the largest inland deltas in the world and is home to an incredible cluster of wildlife.
The delta is fed by the Okavango River which flows from the highlands of Angola and sees seasonal floods, which brings in migrant species from other parts of the Kalahari, during its dry season. Thus, the delta acts as a massive oasis, watering life in the desert. The delta comprises marshlands, lagoons, salt islands, flooded grasslands and plains, deciduous forests, woodlands and extensive water channels, forming a rich ecosystem for life to boom.
The Last Eden
The Okavango delta paints a stark contrast of lush greenery and thriving life amidst the hot and dry Kalahari. Anyone would be surprised to discover that such a paradise can exist, nestled among one of the biggest deserts on the planet. That is why the Okavango Delta is often referred to as Africa’s Last Eden or The Jewel of the Kalahari, and rightly so.
Wildlife
The delta is defined by papyrus and reed-lined waterways, rows of palms, lush grasslands and crystal clear waters decorated with lilies. Given this lush ecosystem, the delta supports more than 150 species of mammals and reptiles, 400 species of birds and 70 species of fishes. They house both a permanent population as well as a large migrant population of animals and birds.
Wildebeest, common eland, steenbok, gemsbok, greater kudu, zebra, South African giraffe, sable antelope, roan antelope, African buffalo, African leopard, Nile crocodile, spotted hyena, brown hyena, warthog and some of the planet’s largest bush elephant herds are the major species that reside here. Bird species like the crested crane, Egyptian goose, African fish eagle, African darter, ostrich, hornbills, egrets, kingfisher and ibis are found here.
Endangered species like cheetah, lion, wild dog, white and black rhino live in plenty here. The delta is also a paradise of threatened bird species like the wattled crane, southern ground hornbill, slaty egret and six vulture species.
Moremi Game Reserve
This reserve covers almost 40% of the delta and is a popular choice for tourists mainly because of this feature – you can spot all the big five animals of Africa, very easily. There are several accommodation options here including lodges, cabins and campsites. They also arrange some of the best safaris, birdwatching tours, mokoro trips and game drives.
Why should you visit?
The safari experience in the Okavango is simply unmatched. Who would have guessed that an African safari is possible in a sea of blue and green, contrary to the usual endless brown?
Several factors threaten the existence of the Okavango Delta. The sole water source for the delta flows in from Angola which is already causing water diversions due to an increased population. Similarly, the Namibian government’s plans to build a hydropower station might reduce the water flow to the delta.
In addition, global warming is already causing reduced rainfall and hotter conditions, all of which are working against the survival of this delta. Once the water stops, the delta will fuse with the rest of the Kalahari.
The future of the delta is at risk and several organisations have taken measures to aid conservation. We never know what would happen to the delta after a few years, but while it lasts, let us make sure to savour this gem of nature.
Follow our blog for your daily dose of travel inspiration, information and tips. We try to publish atleast one article each day. Check this space for all the latest posts.
